participants at the conference from 17 countries, so very many groups ~oing research in the field of novae were represented. The reader will see that the subject has become more physical (we know for instance that the binary nature of novae is essential) but much work remains to be done. There is still a large gulf between theory and observation. May he find here many new ideas for future research! I would like to thank the French Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique for providing financial help. I must also thank the other members of the scientific committee (Profs and Drs Bath, Mustel, Payne- Gaposchkin, Sparks and Warner) and of the local committee (Audouze, Mrs Steinberg, Vauclair).